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ABOUT THE ARROWHEAD BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
Our History: Serving the Northland Since 1952
Our roots run deep in the local building community. Founded on June 23, 1952, by a forward-thinking 12-member Board of Directors, we initially served the community as the Duluth Home Builders Association. From day one, our founders set out with a clear purpose: to elevate the standards of home construction, protect homeownership, and advocate for the rights of local builders.
As the regional economy grew, so did we. In November 1983, we officially adopted the name Arrowhead Builders Association to reflect our expanding territory. Today, the ABA proudly oversees and supports industry professionals across six counties in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Whether you are a licensed builder, a specialty subcontractor, an industry supplier, or a homeowner looking for the region's most trusted craftsmen, you’ve come to the right place.
The Arrowhead Builders Association (ABA) is the premier professional organization dedicated to advancing the building industry across Northeast Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin. We set the standard for integrity, value, and trust in the local construction community.
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While the tools and building codes have evolved over the decades, the quality, core values, and strict code of ethics established by our founders in 1952 remain the bedrock of our association today.
What We Do: Supporting the Building Industry Through Education & Advocacy
The residential construction and commercial building industry is a vital engine for our regional economy. At the ABA, our mission is simple: Supporting the Building Industry through Education & Advocacy.
We bridge the gap between hard-working professionals and the communities they build by focusing on four key pillars:
Robust Political AdvocacyNavigating the complex landscape of local, state, and national regulations can be daunting and expensive. The ABA serves as your legislative watchdog and lobbyist, actively fighting for builders' rights and working to keep housing safe, high-quality, and affordable. |
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| Accessible Continuing EducationStay compliant and competitive without the hassle. We provide access to accredited Continuing Education (CEU) courses tailored to both Minnesota and Wisconsin licensing requirements, alongside comprehensive business strategy and leadership development programs. |
Business-to-Business NetworkingGrowing a business requires a strong network. Through our regular ABA Night Out events, annual golf outings, and clay shoots, we connect you directly with potential clients, trusted subcontractors, and the area's top material suppliers. |
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| Consumer Confidence & Consumer ProtectionWe give homeowners peace of mind. By assuring the public that ABA builders are fully licensed, insured, and bound to an ethical code of conduct, we drive local consumers toward our member directory, acting as a powerful lead generator for your business. |
Power in Numbers: The 3-in-1 Federation Structure
When you join the Arrowhead Builders Association, you don't just gain a local partner—you gain immediate, powerful representation at the state and national levels. The ABA functions as part of a seamless federation, giving you a 3-for-the-price-of-1 membership that maximizes your return on investment.
Local: Arrowhead Builders Association (ABA)
Your boots-on-the-ground resource. This is where you build your immediate professional network, attend local ABA Nights Out, earn your local CEUs, and gain direct online visibility via our regional builder directory.
State: Builders Association of Minnesota (BAM)
BAM brings together 7 local associations across the state to serve as a massive force at the Minnesota State Capitol. Representing an industry that contributes $1.3 billion annually to the state economy, BAM aggressively fights harmful legislation, regulation, and litigation in the state courts. Your membership also unlocks exclusive BAM perks, including specialized, builder-specific Workers' Compensation and comprehensive business insurance programs.
National: National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
The leading voice for America's housing industry. Composed of more than 700 state and local associations, the NAHB represents over 140,000 members nationwide. They work tirelessly in Washington, D.C. to ensure housing remains a national priority. Through NAHB, you gain access to massive national discount programs with corporate partners like Verizon, FedEx, Dell, and Hertz, drastically slicing your daily operational expenses.
Build Your Future with the ABA
Stop letting common industry challenges hold your business back. By joining the Arrowhead Builders Association, you transform everyday operational obstacles into distinct opportunities for growth, significant financial savings, and widespread professional influence.
Whether you are an established general contractor, an architect, a building supplier, or a specialty craftsman, you belong in our ranks.